Evaluation of Earth Cover as Protection to Aboveground Structures

摘要

Earth-covered corrugated steel structures, both fullsize and quarter-scale models, were tested. The tests were designed to obtain a measure of the blast resistance and the radiation resistance of this type of structure (a 25-foot span arch) if it were used for a personnel shelter. A full-scale structure successfully withstood peak pressures of 11-psi sideon and 30-psi dynamic on the open plain. Another full-scale structure failed under the load produced by peak pressures of 30-psi side-on and 170-psi dynamic on the open plain. Prompt radiation was attenuated by a factor of 100; the radiation resistance would be greatly improved by additional thickness of earth cover at the crown. The performance of the models was roughly consistent with expectations. Although further experimentation will be required before the reliability of the model results can be assured, the TEAPOT results suggest that static model tests prior to any further full-scale blast tests will enhance the value of the results, and will reduce the cost, of such full-scale operations. (Author)